Job at a glance
We are looking for a maximum of 3 Medical examiners to work 1 session per week. Medical examiners (MEs) are appropriately trained doctors who will verify clinical information on Medical Certificates of Cause of Death (MCCDs) and ensure that the right referrals are made to the coroner for further investigation. A practising medical practitioner who has been on the general medical council register for a minimum of five years post registration can apply to be a medical examiner.
It is recommended that medical examiners are consultant grade doctors from a range of disciplines, including GP principals (who will be employed as specialty doctors. Specialty Doctors and Specialist doctors with appropriate skills will also be considered. MEs will take a consistent approach to the formulation of MCCD content, which must be clinically accurate and reflect any discussions with the next of kin/informant.
MEs must not have been involved in the care of the deceased patients for deaths they scrutinise. To engage with lead ME and lead MEO for the region. To ensure compliance with the legal and procedural requirements associated with the current and proposed reformed processes of certification, investigation by coroners and registration of deaths. · To scrutinise the certified causes of death offered by attending doctors in a way that is proportionate, consistent and compliant with the proposed national protocol.
· To discuss and explain the cause of death with next of kin/informants in a transparent, tactful and sympathetic manner. It is anticipated that such discussions will be predominately conducted through telephone conversations where barriers to understanding information may exist. · To ensure that all users of the ME system are treated with respect and are not discriminated against on the grounds of age, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or disability.
· To maintain comprehensive records of all deaths scrutinised and undertake analysis to provide information to the National Medical Examiner's office. · To participate in relevant clinical governance activities relating to death certification including audits, mortality review processes and investigations regarding formal complaints about patient care. · To support the training of junior doctors in their understanding of death certification and promote good practice in accurate completion of MCCDs.
· To work with medical examiner officers (MEOs), delegating duties as appropriate. Why Join Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust? At Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As a Disability Confident Employer and recipient of the Gold Award in the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme, we actively champion equality, diversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to build rewarding careers within the NHS.
We also recognise the importance of a healthy work-life balance. By supporting flexible working arrangements wherever possible, we enable our colleagues to balance their professional and personal commitments while continuing to deliver outstanding care to our patients. Whether flexibility means adjusted hours, part-time working, hybrid arrangements or alternative working patterns, we work in partnership with our staff to meet both individual and service needs.
Whether you're at the start of your career or looking for your next challenge, Frimley Health offers the opportunity to be part of a inclusive, forward-thinking organisation that is committed to excellence, innovation and compassionate care. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare and make a real difference to the lives of the communities we serve.